But I must go on. I have Dolores and Jose to look
after me." Alaire indicated Sanchez, who had edged his way close
and now stood with admiring eyes fixed upon his hero.
"Yes, 'mi General," Jose exclaimed, eagerly, "I am here."
Longorio scrutinized the horse-breaker critically. "Your name is--?"
"Jose Sanchez."
"You look like a brave fellow."
Jose swelled at this praise, and no doubt would have made suitable
answer, but his employer held out her hand, and General Longorio
bent over it, raising it to his lips.
"Senora, one favor you can grant me. No! It is a right I shall
claim." He called one of his subordinates closer and ordered that
a lieutenant and six soldiers be detached to act as an escort to
Mrs. Austin's party. "It is nothing," he assured her. "It is the
least I can do. Have no uneasiness, for these men are the bravest
of my command, and they shall answer with their lives for your
safety. As for that teniente--ah, he is favored above his
general!" Longorio rolled his eyes. "Think of it! I could be
faithless to duty--a traitor to my country--for the privilege he
is to enjoy. It is the sacred truth! Senora, the hours will drag
until I may see you again and be of further service.
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